Retirement beneficiaries will receive their payments in July 2025 according to an established schedule. Those who began receiving benefits before May 1997 or who receive SSI will receive their payments on July 3. Others will receive their payments based on their birth date on the second, third, and fourth Wednesdays of the month.
The amounts vary depending on the claiming age. At age 62, the maximum possible beneficiary is $2,831 (the earliest possible age); at age 67 (full retirement age, FRA), the maximum amount rises to $4,018. And at age 70, it’s $5,108. In May 2025, the average was $2,002.39, adjusted for a 2.5% COLA.
July Social Security payments: more details to keep in mind
The Social Security Administration (SSA) maintains a predictable schedule to facilitate financial planning. Payments are made on business days, avoiding weekends or holidays. In July 2025, all dates fall on Wednesdays, with no adjustments required. Those collecting SSI or having benefits prior to 1997 will receive their payment on July 3.
The full payments list for July:
- July 3: Beneficiaries born before May 1997 or those receiving SSI
- July 9: Beneficiaries with birthdays from the 1st to the 10th of the month
- July 16: Beneficiaries with birthdays from the 11th to the 20th of the month
- July 23: Beneficiaries with birthdays from the 21st to the 31st of the month
The maximum amount depends on age and earnings history. Those who delay claiming until age 70 receive the highest benefit ($5,108). Those who retire at age 62 accept a permanent reduction. The calculation is based on the 35 years of highest earnings, adjusted for inflation.
The average benefit surpassed $2,000 for the first time in May 2025. This increase reflects the cost-of-living adjustment (COLA), which helps retirees maintain their purchasing power. The CPI-W determines this annual increase, which is key to counteracting inflation.
Soon, you won’t be able to receive your retirement by paper check
Starting October 1, 2025, all federal payments will be electronic. Those who still receive physical checks will need to migrate to direct deposit. However, as of July, this measure is not yet in effect, and payments will continue using the current method.
The SSA prioritizes security and efficiency in distribution. Electronic payments reduce the risk of loss or theft, and the agency believes it is important to curb these cases, which have been on the rise in recent years. As of July 2025, the traditional system will remain in effect, but beneficiaries are advised to update their bank details in advance to avoid payment suspensions.
Instead, you’ll need to opt for one of these electronic means:
- Direct deposit to bank account.
- Prepaid card, such as “DirectExpress,” if you don’t have a bank account.
- In exceptional cases, if you do not have access to digital media, you could request an exception from the Treasury, but these are very limited.
The deadline to make the change is September 30th, and we recommend doing so as soon as possible, avoiding the last few days: large numbers of applications are expected in the final weeks of September. This suspension of paper checks also applies to Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Disability Insurance (SSDI).
